Washington's math problem got worse

A recent article published by the Seattle Times outlines students’ worsening performance on math scores and proficiency rates in Washington state since state testing has resumed. (Full article available here). Just 33% of students tested this year in grades four through 11 met or exceeded standards in math. This is a drop of almost 20 percent points over the scores from 2019.

This chart made by the Seattle Times shows the change in percent of students meeting standards on state math tests from 2019 to 2021.

The article outlines the huge disparity in test scores among students in low-income households where only 17% of students met the state standard. Poverty has been shown to greatly impact success in the classroom. The data collected in this round of testing reaffirms existing inequities as well as the disproportional impact the pandemic has had on lower income households. This graph also shows the impacts that both the previous existing inequities and the pandemic have had on students of color with regards to math test scores. With so many students not meeting the state standards in math we have a lot of work to do.

Now more than ever it is crucial that we provide a culturally responsive approach to math education throughout our communities. We at SUMM believe this starts with demonstrating that math is truly for everyone, math is fun, and all children can learn math.

We intend to build a physical museum where children can play with math and learn in a hands-on way, where we are able to reach and be accessible to communities where we can have the greatest impact.

Join us on our mission to spark each and every person to love math, and support SUMM today. We will take you on a math journey and create opportunities for exploration, discovery, and growth.